Unlike traditional infrastructure that addresses one problem at a time, smarter infrastructure works with nature to address multiple problems holistically. Willamette Partnership is working to increase investment in green infrastructure — the forests, wetlands, watersheds and other landscapes that work together to create multiple benefits. And, we’re helping minimize the impacts of the roads, pipes, and transmission lines that we do build. Here’s why:

Protects the environment

We’re expanding the use of green infrastructure because it provides clean water, protects wildlife habitat, costs less than traditional infrastructure, and lasts longer.

Boosts the economy

More investment in green infrastructure and in mitigation of gray infrastructure creates new, higher-paying jobs that are closer to home. And, nature-based solutions are long-lasting and resilient, which means less cost to ratepayers over time.

Improves the quality of life

Whether gray or green, infrastructure investments can be sited, designed, and built in ways that promote health for people and for ecosystems: improving air and water quality, reducing flooding and excessive heat, and bringing people closer to nature.

Working Lands Conservation

Stewardship that works for farmers, foresters, and ranchers

Working lands conservationprovides landowners with incentives to make choices that are good for nature and good for business. By helping landowners on farms, forests, and ranches take voluntary actions that benefit species and priority habitats, we’re creating a shift in how we manage land to produce food and better environments in the West. Here’s why:

Protects the environment

We measure the tangible benefits that landowners receive when their conservation efforts protect critical habitat for threatened species, cleans water, and reduces the risk of flood and fire.

Boosts the economy

Working lands conservation turns habitat and clean water into an asset, increasing property values and creating the incomes needed to sustain generations of farmers, foresters, and ranchers.

Improves the quality of life

We help private landowners gain recognition when stewardship reduces pollution and creates open spaces that all people can enjoy.

Community Resilience

Working with nature to improve health and economic outcomes

Willamette Partnership is assisting community leaders who want to improve environmental, economic, and public health outcomes as a way to strengthen community resilience. We bring well-proven conservation solutions such as floodplain management and habitat restoration to tough conversations around economic development, healthcare costs, affordable housing, and other community development challenges facing the West. Here’s why:

Protects the environment

Resilient communities can restore and protect healthy ecosystems that defend people against flooding, erosion, fire, and other natural disasters.

Boosts the economy

Our work is building a restoration economy and jobs that create living wages, healthier workers, and have a positive effect on the environment.

Improves the quality of life

Time outdoors in nature reduces chronic disease and improves mental health. We help make the connections between health and the outdoors for all.